Is there a carbohydrate window? The value of carbohydrates for the body after exercise. What foods to use to close the window? Reviews of losing weight and athletes.
The carbohydrate window is the short period of time after exercise when the body urgently needs carbohydrates to replenish energy. It is believed that during this period, high-calorie foods are eaten without prejudice to the figure. Let's figure out what the carbohydrate window means and how to close it.
Carbohydrate Window - Myth or Reality?
The post-workout carbohydrate window has become an integral part of athletes' vocabulary. This is the name for the time after exercise, when the body lacks energy and nutrition to restore muscles.
But experts say that the term "carbohydrate window" is not correct. To restore the body requires carbohydrates and proteins, so the window is called "protein-carbohydrate".
There is no scientific evidence to support the need for a protein-carbohydrate meal after exercise. Studies have been conducted in which one group of people took protein in the morning and evening, the other - before and after strength training. The results are the same. Because of this, many nutritionists believe that the carbohydrate window is a myth justifying eating sweets after exercise while losing weight.
Despite the fact that there is no consensus about the theory, it can be tested for yourself. After playing sports, regularly drink a glass of kefir or yogurt with the addition of cottage cheese and 3 tsp. honey. After 1-2 months, the result will be noticeable. If the protein-carbohydrate window works, you will lose weight and build muscle.
There is an assumption that in the evening at 11-12 at night, another window opens - the protein one. Scientists consider it a myth, but athletes confirm that eating protein foods at this time accelerates muscle gain.